Please read this article for background/more info: iPhone/iPad external microphones
I am now pretty confident in my portable video/audio recording solution using my iPhone 4. Everything I need to do on-the-spot interviews, B-roll filming, and even more advanced shooting, I can fit in my iPad's bag.
Here's my basic setup - everything I need (with the exception of the iPhone 4), I put together for under $100:
- iPhone 4 Tripod mount + mini Targus tripod (here's how you make the iPhone tripod)
- External Lavaliere microphone + adapter for iPhone 4 (here's what I'm using, along with some samples, and microphone recommendations)
- An interview mic setup - so far not ideal, but getting there (a Shure SM58 with the iPhone 4)
This setup is ideal for interviews, recording video podcasts, and, with the help of another DIY project on which I'm working, recording video with some interesting perspectives.